SHILLONG, March 9: The Meghalaya government’s purported plan to dismiss Justice (retired) BP Katakey, the head of the one-man committee looking into illegal coal mining and transportation in the state, has been vehemently opposed by the Voice of the People Party (VPP).
The party called on the citizens to rise against what it describes as a “nefarious attempt” to undermine justice.
“It is quite offensive that the state government is attempting to remove Justice Katakey. This reveals once more the real nature of the MDA Government, which appears to be hostile to openness,” VPP spokesperson Batskhem Myrboh stated on Sunday, adding that “anyone who dares to hold the NPP-led MDA Government accountable appears to face its wrath”.
According to reports, the state government is seeking legal advice on submitting a petition in the High Court of Meghalaya to have Justice Katakey removed.
This move has angered many, who say it is the result of political pressure from coal barons who are uneasy with Justice Katakey’s unwavering quest for the truth.
The High Court assigned Justice Katakey, who is renowned for his tough stance, to supervise the implementation of the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) ban on illegal coal mining.
Justice Katakey has gained admiration and, apparently, strong adversaries for his unrelenting attempts to uncover illicit mining operations, Myrboh said.
The VPP accused the government of methodically undermining institutions intended to hold it in check, drawing a stark comparison between this most recent action and earlier instances.
“This has happened before. Lokayukta officers were dismissed on thin pretexts only for carrying out their duties. Since Justice Katakey’s findings could expose the grim reality of illicit coal mining, the government now seeks to suppress him,” Myrboh continued.
Sources claim that while Justice Katakey’s mandate is still unfinished, not all MDA cabinet members support the idea to remove him. Many people view the action as politically risky and legally questionable.
The VPP made a strong appeal for Meghalayans to rebel against what it describes as a “nefarious attempt” to thwart justice.
“It will be a sombre day in Meghalaya’s history if Justice Katakey is dismissed. We must unite and overthrow this corrupt government,” Myrboh proclaimed.
